A court in Shymkent, Kazakhstan has sentenced two individuals to four years in prison for organizing illegal online casinos, according to the country’s Financial Monitoring Agency. The operations, under the names Bingo-37 and Lotoboom, reportedly generated a total turnover of 3.1 billion tenge (approximately $7 million).
Details of the Illegal Operations
Investigators stated that the illegal casinos operated from January 2023 to November 2025, attracting players through WhatsApp messages. After initial contact, organizers created accounts for players and provided payment details for deposits. Bets and winnings were processed through accounts belonging to 14 intermediaries, commonly referred to as 'droppers.' Of the total turnover, 2.6 billion tenge was returned to players as winnings.
Asset Seizure and Legal Proceedings
The organizers reportedly used proceeds from the operation to purchase vehicles and two land plots valued at over 200 million tenge (about $455,000). These assets have been confiscated. The court’s verdict is not yet final and may be subject to appeal.
Implications for the Industry
This case demonstrates Kazakhstan’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal gambling. The use of messaging apps and third-party accounts highlights how unlicensed operators attempt to evade regulatory oversight. The confiscation of criminal proceeds signals a strict approach to enforcement, which is relevant for both licensed operators and affiliates considering activity in the region.
Key takeaways
- Two organizers of illegal online casinos in Kazakhstan received four-year prison sentences.
- Operations involved significant turnover and use of third-party accounts for transactions.
- Assets acquired from gambling proceeds were confiscated by authorities.
- The verdict is not yet final and may be appealed.